Which States Are the Most and Least Obese?

Which States Are the Most and Least Obese? - Obesity is weighing the country down—in some parts more than others.

The Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation released its annual report on obesity this week. The study found that last year rates among adults increased in six states—Alaska, Delaware, Idaho, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Wyoming—and decreased in none.

Mississippi and West Virginia fared the worst in the nation with adult obesity rates at 35.1 percent. Nine of the 10 most obese states are in the South. (Indiana’s the eighth most obese with 31.8 percent.)

Where is the condition the least prevalent? Colorado, with a rate of 21.3 percent, followed by Hawaii (21.8 percent) and the District of Columbia (22.9 percent)— which are still high compared to three decades ago when no state had a rate above 15 percent.

“Until we start moving more and think more about the quality of the food we’re eating, we’re not going to fully reverse this epidemic,” Levi said in a press conference, reported TIME. He attributed the historic number to bad eating habits, lack of physical activity, fast-food chains, and scarcity of affordable nutritious foods in many areas.

Among economic and racial groups, black, Latino, and low-income Americans have higher rates of obesity.

“Disparate access to affordable healthy food and safe places to be physically active contribute to higher rates of obesity and related illnesses in black communities,” reads the report. “Latinos experience high rates of hunger and food insecurity, often have limited access to safe places for physical activity, and have inequities in access to healthcare.”

The silver lining? While cheap sugary treats and lack of exercise still put kids at risk, especially those in the black and Latino communities, the prevalence of obesity among all American children has leveled off. Last February, the CDC reported that childhood obesity rates in the U.S. dropped 43 percent from 2003 to 2012. ( Takepart.com )

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21 Ways Rich People Think Differently

21 Ways Rich People Think Differently - World's richest woman Gina Rinehart is enduring a media firestorm over an article in which she takes the "jealous" middle class to task for "drinking, or smoking and socializing" rather than working to earn their own fortune. 

What if she has a point? 

Steve Siebold, author of "How Rich People Think," spent nearly three decades interviewing millionaires around the world to find out what separates them from everyone else. 

It had little to do with money itself, he told Business Insider. It was about their mentality.

"[The middle class] tells people to be happy with what they have," he said. "And on the whole, most people are steeped in fear when it comes to money."

Flickr / C. Pajunen

1. Average people think MONEY is the root of all evil. Rich people believe POVERTY is the root of all evil.

"The average person has been brainwashed to believe rich people are lucky or dishonest," Siebold writes.

That's why there's a certain shame that comes along with "getting rich" in lower-income communities.

"The world class knows that while having money doesn't guarantee happiness, it does make your life easier and more enjoyable." 

2. Average people think selfishness is a vice. Rich people think selfishness is a virtue.

"The rich go out there and try to make themselves happy. They don't try to pretend to save the world," Siebold told Business Insider. 

The problem is that middle class people see that as a negative––and it's keeping them poor, he writes.

"If you're not taking care of you, you're not in a position to help anyone else. You can't give what you don't have."

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3. Average people have a lottery mentality. Rich people have an action mentality.

"While the masses are waiting to pick the right numbers and praying for prosperity, the great ones are solving problems," Siebold writes.

"The hero [middle class people] are waiting for may be God, government, their boss or their spouse. It's the average person's level of thinking that breeds this approach to life and living while the clock keeps ticking away." 

4. Average people think the road to riches is paved with formal education. Rich people believe in acquiring specific knowledge.

"Many world-class performers have little formal education, and have amassed their wealth through the acquisition and subsequent sale of specific knowledge," he writes. 

"Meanwhile, the masses are convinced that master's degrees and doctorates are the way to wealth, mostly because they are trapped in the linear line of thought that holds them back from higher levels of consciousness...The wealthy aren't interested in the means, only the end."

I Love Lucy screencap

5. Average people long for the good old days. Rich people dream of the future.

"Self-made millionaires get rich because they're willing to bet on themselves and project their dreams, goals and ideas into an unknown future," Siebold writes. 

"People who believe their best days are behind them rarely get rich, and often struggle with unhappiness and depression."

6. Average people see money through the eyes of emotion. Rich people think about money logically.

"An ordinarily smart, well-educated and otherwise successful person can be instantly transformed into a fear-based, scarcity driven thinker whose greatest financial aspiration is to retire comfortably," he writes.

"The world class sees money for what it is and what it's not, through the eyes of logic. The great ones know money is a critical tool that presents options and opportunities." 

7. Average people earn money doing things they don't love. Rich people follow their passion.

"To the average person, it looks like the rich are working all the time," Siebold says. "But one of the smartest strategies of the world class is doing what they love and finding a way to get paid for it."

On the other hand, middle class take jobs they don't enjoy "because they need the money and they've been trained in school and conditioned by society to live in a linear thinking world that equates earning money with physical or mental effort." 

8. Average people set low expectations so they're never disappointed. Rich people are up for the challenge.

"Psychologists and other mental health experts often advise people to set low expectations for their life to ensure they are not disappointed," Siebold writes.

"No one would ever strike it rich and live their dreams without huge expectations." 

BarackObamadotcom via YouTube

9. Average people believe you have to DO something to get rich. Rich people believe you have to BE something to get rich.

"That's why people like Donald Trump go from millionaire to nine billion dollars in debt and come back richer than ever," he writes. 

"While the masses are fixated on the doing and the immediate results of their actions, the great ones are learning and growing from every experience, whether it's a success or a failure, knowing their true reward is becoming a human success machine that eventually produces outstanding results."

10. Average people believe you need money to make money. Rich people use other people's money.

Linear thought might tell people to make money in order to earn more, but Siebold says the rich aren't afraid to fund their future from other people's pockets.

"Rich people know not being solvent enough to personally afford something is not relevant. The real question is, 'Is this worth buying, investing in, or pursuing?'" he writes.

11. Average people believe the markets are driven by logic and strategy. Rich people know they're driven by emotion and greed.

Investing successfully in the stock market isn't just about a fancy math formula.

"The rich know that the primary emotions that drive financial markets are fear and greed, and they factor this into all trades and trends they observe," Siebold writes.

"This knowledge of human nature and its overlapping impact on trading give them strategic advantage in building greater wealth through leverage."

12. Average people live beyond their means. Rich people live below theirs.

"Here's how to live below your means and tap into the secret wealthy people have used for centuries: Get rich so you can afford to," he writes. 

"The rich live below their means, not because they're so savvy, but because they make so much money that they can afford to live like royalty while still having a king's ransom socked away for the future." 

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13. Average people teach their children how to survive. Rich people teach their kids to get rich.

Rich parents teach their kids from an early age about the world of "haves" and "have-nots," Siebold says. Even he admits many people have argued that he's supporting the idea of elitism. 

He disagrees.

"[People] say parents are teaching their kids to look down on the masses because they're poor. This isn't true," he writes. "What they're teaching their kids is to see the world through the eyes of objective reality––the way society really is." 

If children understand wealth early on, they'll be more likely to strive for it later in life.

14. Average people let money stress them out. Rich people find peace of mind in wealth.

The reason wealthy people earn more wealth is that they're not afraid to admit that money can solve most problems, Siebold says.

"[The middle class] sees money as a never-ending necessary evil that must be endured as part of life. The world class sees money as the great liberator, and with enough of it, they are able to purchase financial peace of mind."

Kim Bhasin / Business Insider

15. Average people would rather be entertained than educated. Rich people would rather be educated than entertained.

While the rich don't put much stock in furthering wealth through formal education, they appreciate the power of learning long after college is over, Siebold says.

"Walk into a wealthy person's home and one of the first things you'll see is an extensive library of books they've used to educate themselves on how to become more successful," he writes.

"The middle class reads novels, tabloids and entertainment magazines." 

16. Average people think rich people are snobs. Rich people just want to surround themselves with like-minded people.

The negative money mentality poisoning the middle class is what keeps the rich hanging out with the rich, he says.

"[Rich people] can't afford the messages of doom and gloom," he writes. "This is often misinterpreted by the masses as snobbery.

Labeling the world class as snobs is another way the middle class finds to feel better bout themselves and their chosen path of mediocrity."

Flickr / Wei Tchou

17. Average people focus on saving. Rich people focus on earning.

Siebold theorizes that the wealthy focus on what they'll gain by taking risks, rather than how to save what they have.

"The masses are so focused on clipping coupons and living frugally they miss major opportunities," he writes.

"Even in the midst of a cash flow crisis, the rich reject the nickle and dime thinking of the masses. They are the masters of focusing their mental energy where it belongs: on the big money." 

18. Average people play it safe with money. Rich people know when to take risks.

"Leverage is the watchword of the rich," Siebold writes. 

"Every investor loses money on occasion, but the world class knows no matter what happens, they will aways be able to earn more." 

Flickr / Ibrahim Iujaz

19. Average people love to be comfortable. Rich people find comfort in uncertainty.

For the most part, it takes guts to take the risks necessary to make it as a millionaire––a challenge most middle class thinkers aren't comfortable living with.

"Physical, psychological, and emotional comfort is the primary goal of the middle class mindset," Siebold writes.

World class thinkers learn early on that becoming a millionaire isn't easy and the need for comfort can be devastating. They learn to be comfortable while operating in a state of ongoing uncertainty."

20. Average people never make the connection between money and health. Rich people know money can save your life.

While the middle class squabbles over the virtues of Obamacare and their company's health plan, the super wealthy are enrolled in a super elite "boutique medical care" association, Siebold says.

"They pay a substantial yearly membership fee that guarantees them 24-hour access to a private physician who only serves a small group of members," he writes.

"Some wealthy neighborhoods have implemented this strategy and even require the physician to live in the neighborhood."

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21. Average people believe they must choose between a great family and being rich. Rich people know you can have it all.

The idea the wealth must come at the expense of family time is nothing but a "cop-out", Siebold says.

"The masses have been brainwashed to believe it's an either/or equation," he writes. "The rich know you can have anything you want if you approach the challenge with a mindset rooted in love and abundance." ( Business Insider )

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Weight loss and my machine 'companion'

Weight loss and my machine 'companion' - Glenn Keller is one of seven CNN viewers participating in the 2012 Fit Nation Triathlon Challenge. At the beginning of the challenge, Keller weighed more than 300 pounds and suffered from sleep apnea due to his obesity.

It's been ten years or so now that I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. I was told that it was a result of my being overweight. The process started with a sleep study when I spent the night in a sleep lab so that the degree of sleep apnea could be diagnosed. That way they would be able to determine settings for my new companion, a C.P.A.P. (continuous positive airway pressure) machine.

Glenn Keller and Fit Nation Athletic Director April Burkey stretch after a run in Atlanta.

I use the term "companion" because the machine goes everywhere with me. I've been unable to go anywhere 

without it for years and I mean anywhere.

It has gone more places with me than my wife.

When I went on a cruise ... it was there.

When I go to Louisiana to visit my mother - it's right there.

Spend a night somewhere in a motel ... and it's right there.

And yes, it's in the truck also, every time it moves.

It's really an experience going to sleep looking like a scuba diver.

My wife could probably speak more to this issue but there is nothing intimate about it. However, my wife never lets me fall asleep without it. The snoring associated with sleep apnea is unbearable. Yes our sleep apnea affects others. Occasionally while watching television I will doze off and it seems without hesitation she will wake me up and tell me "put that mask on."

So here we are 10 years later - not joined at the hip - but instead joined at the face.

What has been totally ridiculous about this is that I could have done something about it. I wasn't going through this as a result of some incurable disease. I was allowing myself to go through this because I would not stop overeating. I endured over 10 years, over 120 months, more than 480 weeks and more than 3360 nights of having no sleep with this thing on my face because I wouldn't stop stuffing my face. I can't imagine the cost to my insurance provider for the sleep studies and CPAP machines over the years with all I really needed was diet and exercise.

Unfortunately sleep apnea isn't the only problem that being overweight can cause. Being an over-the-road truck driver I'm required by law to take and pass a physical every two years. They test for things like hypertension and diabetes - and both can be disqualifying. There were times leading up to a physical I would be taking garlic pills and drinking vinegar in an attempt to get my blood pressure down.

A couple of weeks ago I was at a truck stop standing in line behind someone who was buying a pickle that was in a little plastic bag with pickle juice in it. He turned to me and asked, "doesn't this vinegar help bring your blood pressure down?"

It was with a great deal of pride that I responded, "not like diet and exercise."

The last time I saw my doctor, my blood pressure was great.

That's not all diet and exercise has done for me. Since becoming part of The CNN Fit Nation Tri Challenge I've lost almost 30 pounds.

At the beginning of this blog I spoke about the splitting headaches I would have whenever I tried to sleep without the CPAP machine. While in Atlanta for Kick Off Weekend I didn't have access to it for three nights – which I had never done. I slept without it and not one morning did I wake up with a headache.

Then a couple of weeks ago, while at home, I left it in the truck and didn't realize it until bed time and didn't feel like driving back to the truck.

I just knew my wife was going to have to sleep in another room because she was not going to be able to put up with the snoring.

Much to my surprise, when I woke up she was right there. When I asked her about my snoring she said it was so mild she hardly noticed and it didn't even bother her.

What has been so wonderful is that I still need to lose a bunch of weight - but how much of a difference simply heading in the right direction has made!

What is it going to be like when I arrive?

I'm thanking God already. Dieting and exercise has been a challenge, but it's been a rewarding challenge. ( cnn )

Blog : Beautiful Scene | Weight loss and my machine 'companion'

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How Sex Addiction is Affecting Your Life

How Sex Addiction is Affecting Your Life - This month, gossip blogs and celebrity magazines were rocked with the news that Californication star David Duchovny checked into rehab for sex addition.

Previous reports suggested that Duchovny was struggling with an addiction to Internet pornography and cybersex, but more recent rumors maintain that actual physical infidelity occurred. (However, just because Duchovny created a television series in which his fantasized writings turned into actual dalliances, we can't assume this infidelity manifested in his real life as well. Until we receive proof to the contrary, let's assume that he kept his pants on, unlike the main character he dreamt up and plays everyday.)

That being said, most couples would agree (rightfully so) that cybersex addiction can be just as devastating and hurtful as an actual affair, and it is becoming a growing concern in our tech-savvy society. According to a study released by Stanford University, 25 million Americans visit cybersex sites 1-10 hours per week, while 4.7 million Americans visit cybersex sites more than 11 hours per week.

What does the growing presence of available Internet pornography and cybersex mean for modern relationships?

Communication is required. Couples need to discuss what they consider infidelity within the confines of their relationship. For instance, is it okay for your partner to look at online pornography? Does it matter if you are present, or can he/she be free to surf solo without fear of you taking offense? Is it permissible for your partner to contact other people via the web for cybersex? Whatever you and your partner decide, agree to keep the honesty intact when accessing the web.

Consider the amount of time the cyber world takes away from your relationship. Even if you and your partner decide that cyber play is permissible, be aware of how much time you are spending on the Internet. If you are devoting more time to online erotica and virtual strangers than you are to your partner, then something is amiss. This can also be a sign of a cybersex addiction, particularly if you feel helpless to control your time online.

Secrets are a warning sign. When secrecy creeps into your "innocent" Internet play, it means that there is a problem. Whether you are hiding from your partner how much time you spend on the Internet, the sites you visit, or the people you talk to online, you are creating an environment for infidelity and relationship breakdown.

If you think that cybersex activity has become more than just a passing hobby, don't despair. Cybersex addiction can be treated, and your partner can help you through this difficult time. Click on this link for resources and treatment options. Cybersex addiction (and all sex addiction) can be just as devastating as drug/alcohol addictions, and most people need a system of support to stop their destructive behavior. Ask for help -- you will be so happy you did. ( lifestyle.yahoo.com )

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Proposals Gone Seriously Wrong

Proposals Gone Seriously Wrong.These eight stories prove that the pop-the-question process doesn't always go smoothly. Plus, tips on how to get the proposal you're hoping for.

Proposals Gone Seriously Wrong

Ring Around the ... Ow!

"I was ecstatic when my boyfriend of three years proposed. He took me out to dinner, and the actual proposal was really emotional and touching. Even better: He invested in a serious rock for me. When he went to slip it on my finger, it was a little small, but I was so excited that I forced it on. Within an hour, my finger had swollen to twice its normal size, and the ring wouldn't come off. When my finger turned blue, my fiancé dragged me to the emergency room. The doctor took one look and said he would have to cut off the ring. I cried the entire time. Luckily, we were able to get a bigger band for the diamond the following week." — Samantha, 27

Lovesick

"I love my girlfriend and knew she was The One. But for some reason, I got nervous whenever I thought of asking her. Finally, I decided to put my fears aside and just do it. One night, I asked her to go on a walk with me, and then I got down on one knee. I blurted out the question, and she said yes and started crying. All the emotion and nervousness got the best of me because as she was jumping up and down, I bent over and threw up. We have been married for a year and can laugh about it now, but it was a sore subject for quite some time." — Eddie, 29

Alternate Plans

"I wanted to ask my girl to marry me at 12:01 a.m. on her birthday. Weeks in advance, I let her sister, Lisa, know my plan and told her to expect an excited phone call shortly after I popped the question. The day before my girlfriend's birthday, I went to pick up the ring from the jeweler. I was bummed when they told me it wasn't ready yet and decided to postpone asking her. That night, she and I still went out, and when I went to the bathroom, my girlfriend happened to call her sister, who picked up and screamed 'Congrats, bride-to-be!' I had forgotten to fill Lisa in on the change of plans, and the surprise was totally ruined." — Tim, 32

Gold Digger

"My guy and I had been dating for about a year when we decided to go on a vacation to Mexico together. After a romantic dinner on our last night there, we took a stroll on the beach. I was thinking about how much fun we were having when I looked down and saw that he was holding a ring in front of me. We hadn't been together for very long, and I was so shocked that I screamed, causing him to jump and drop the ring. When he went to get it, it was buried in the sand. We spent 10 minutes digging it up before I could say yes." — Elise, 30

A Rocky Proposal

"My boyfriend took me to New York City for the weekend and scheduled all these romantic events, like a carriage ride in Central Park, a trip to the top of the Empire State Building, and a really fancy dinner at a nice restaurant. I thought for sure he was going to ask me to marry him because we had been talking about it for a while. So when he hadn't asked by the end of the weekend, I got really pouty and picked a fight about whether he was serious about us. He tried to calm me down with his usual 'I'm certain you're The One; I just want the time to be right,' but I was so mad that I started packing so I could go to the airport and leave early. He finally had to tell me that he'd planned to ask me that night after a Broadway show. I didn't believe him until he pulled a ring box out of his suitcase. Unfortunately, my bullying had totally destroyed the moment." — Tricia, 24

Surprise Strikeout

"I am a huge baseball fan, and my girlfriend, Sarah, became one too. When I decided I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her, I knew just how to ask her. I got tickets to a game, called the field, and paid to have 'Sarah, marry me' flashed across the jumbo screen. I was told that the announcement would be shown between the fourth and fifth innings. So when Sarah got up to go to the bathroom after the third inning, I thought it wouldn't be a big deal. As I was sitting there by myself, the announcement flashed on the screen, and a camera pointed directly at our seats. The entire stadium saw me sitting there alone. Sarah came back a few minutes later, but by that time, the moment was long over. I asked her anyway, but it wasn't quite the surprise I had hoped for." — Jonathan, 28

Indecent Proposal

"My boyfriend called and told me to meet him at his place for a date. I was running late, so I decided just to go over first and then get ready — I leave plenty of makeup and clothes there. I drove over in pajama pants, with my hair in a ponytail, and wearing no makeup. When I walked in, my entire family was standing there, and my guy was on one knee. Flashes started going off as my two sisters began taking pictures. All I could think about was how terrible I looked for one of the most important moments of my life. I was so embarrassed that I actually started crying. Thankfully, everyone thought it was because I was happy." — Erin, 23

In the Doghouse

"Tanya, my girlfriend, really wanted to get a puppy, but I told her I didn't think we were ready for that responsibility. About a year later, I knew I was ready for our relationship to go to the next level, so I planned a sweet surprise for her. I picked out the perfect ring, then found a breeder and bought a baby golden retriever. One day, when Tanya wasn't home, I brought the dog there and tied the ring around its neck with a thick pink ribbon. I figured that she would come home, the puppy would run up to her, and she'd find the diamond. Well, she got home, found the puppy, and was thrilled ... but when I told her to look around its neck, nothing was there. Somehow, when I wasn't looking, the dog had pawed the ribbon off its neck. We had to ransack the entire house to find the ring." — Mike, 31

Four Tips for Getting the Proposal You Want

1. Keep All Love Expectations Real

High hopes in any romantic situation are normal, but there's no need to freak if things don't go as fantasized.

2. Enlist Your Friends

Ask a pal to let you know when you're overreacting. Sometimes friends think you want them to humor your unrealistic complaints. And don't judge your guy based on what your friends' boyfriends do. It is not fair to him (those guys have flaws too!) and will only make you miserable.

3. Focus on the Good

He showed up with two dozen tulips, totally spacing that you love pink gerbera daisies? Thank him for remembering that you love flowers, and concentrate on how lucky you are to have a man who tried. Dwelling on what you didn't get only encourages you to find fault.

4. Drop Hints

Your guy can't read your mind, so if you have your heart set on something specific, give him a heads-up with a line like "You know, it's our anniversary next week, and I've been wanting to try that cute new bistro." It's not nagging — it's making his life easier and improving your experience. — Molly Creeden ( msn.com )

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More Sex Please, We're French

More Sex Please, We're French. What could be more French than sex? More sex, as it turns out — especially if you happen to be a woman. Nearly 40 years after France's May 1968 revolution spawned the slogan "pleasure without obstruction," a new study finds that the French of both genders are engaging in more varied and frequent sex than ever before — and both earlier and later into life.

Yet perhaps the most significant finding in the report is that French women have been playing serious sexual catch-up with their male counterparts since the last national sex survey in 1992.

Ooh-la-la! According to the new "Study of Sexuality in France," both the number of partners and diversity of sexual activity has significantly increased in France.

Philip Gould / Corbis

According to the new 600-page "Study of Sexuality in France," commissioned by France's National Research Agency on AIDS, both the number of partners and diversity of sexual activity has significantly increased in France in the last decade. That's perhaps not surprising, given how much more sex there is in entertainment, on the internet, and in public discussion.

Less expected, however, is how thoroughly French women have closed the gap with men in terms of number of lovers, age of initiation, and variety of acts engaged in. In some measures, women have overtaken men for the first time. Only 3.5% of women aged 18-35 years now say they are sexually abstinent, for example, versus 6.2% for males of the same age. French women are engaging in sex from a younger age and more frequently than before, while 20% of French men aged 18-24 years say they have no interest in sexual or romantic activity whatever. (See pictures of John Lennon and Yoko Ono's bed-in.)

The study, which surveyed more than 12,000 men and women between the ages of 18 and 69, reports the average age of first sexual intercourse to be 17.2 years for French men, and 17.6 for women — down from nearly 20 years among females in 1996. (Comparable figures in the U.S. show average age for first intercourse as 17.3 years for males and 17.5 for women.) The number of lifetime sexual partners is also on the rise: French women between the ages of 30 and 49 report an average 5.1 amants in their lives (compared to 4 in 1992 and 1.5 in 1970). Men of the same age group give considerably higher numbers — 12.9 partners today — but have changed little over those declared in 1992 (12.6) and 1970 (12.8). Meanwhile, the percentage of people saying they'd had only one sexual partner in their lives has fallen from 43% in 1992 for women to 34% today, compared to 16% among men (down from 18% and 21% in 1970 and 1992 respectively). Fully 90% of women over the age of 50 say they remain sexually active, a big jump from 50% in 1970. (See pictures of people married and in love for 50 years.)

The reason for flagging inhibitions? The study suggests the changes are largely due to increased accessibility to sexual content and the greater ease with which like-minded partners can find one another. The report finds that a staggering two out of every three kids in France has seen a porno film by the age of 11; 10% of women and 13% of men, meanwhile, said they'd use web sites to link up with prospective partners. At younger ages, the percentage of women using the net to arrange dates surpasses that of males.

But all that increased friskiness doesn't necessarily mean the French are happier and better adjusted in the sack. Nearly 36% of French women say they've suffered "frequent or occasion" sexual dysfunction in the past year of their lives, while just over 21% of French men declared the same. That may explain why an estimated 500,000 patients in France visit sex counselors. But the study shows that some enduring French sexual myths are in fact without foundation, particularly the traditional contention of French men that their naturally larger sexual appetites give them grounds to fool around more. French women, it turns out, could make the same argument. ( time.com )

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How The Int'l Sex Symbol Feels about Being in Underwear

How The Int'l Sex Symbol Feels about Being in Underwear. She's an international sex symbol and the new lingerie model for Emporio Armani. But in revealing new interview, Megan Fox reveals a more vulnerable side by admitting she lacks self confidence and says she doesn't look classy in underwear.

The many admirers of the 23-year-old actress may beg to differ - but it seems Megan has a very clear idea about what kind of look she evokes in a pair of smalls. Her latest sponsors might not be impressed, but if they had read any other of her occasionally wacky comments they certainly couldn't claim to be surprised.

W Magazine

Wary: Megan doesnt trust the competitive Hollywood crowd, particularly women

Sultry: Megan in the new Emporio Armani campaign, but she thinks she looks more like a Vargas pin-up girl than she does classy

Speaking to W magazine as part of a new photoshoot, the Transformers star said: 'There are some women you could put in underwear and photograph them, and it looks really classy and it doesn't necessarily provoke a pin-up image.

'But with me it does, immediately, as soon as I''m in underwear. I'm a Vargas girl, she added referring to Alberto Vargas, a famous Peruvian painter of Sixties pin-up girls.

Megan, who has been dating former Beverley Hills 90210 boyfriend Brian Austin Green since 2004, also talked about her lack of confidence in acting and modelling.

She said: 'My main weakness is nerves. I have no confidence, and because of that I'm always second-guessing myself.'

But something she is looking forward to is motherhood, revealing she also has a very maternal side.

'No one believes me when I talk about this, but I'm really maternal,' Fox said.

'I worry that because I've always wanted [kids] so much, as the world goes sometimes, I won't be able to have them, even though I would be able to provide them with such an amazing environment.'

When asked about trust in the film industry, Fox said: 'I don't trust people in this industry, but I especially don't trust girls in this industry, because it's incredibly competitive, and I'm just not interested.'

The actress' next film will be the thriller Passion Play, which also stars Mickey Rourke, Bill Murray and Rhys Ifans. ( kompas.com )

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Instant calmers

Instant calmers. Ten healthy ways to relax, be calm and soothe those frazzled nerves...

Kava Kava:

A pungent herb used for centuries by islanders in the South Pacific to soothe frayed nerves. It has been proved as effective as mainstream tranquillisers such as Valium in relaxing both muscles and emotions. A member of the pepper family, kava kava has no sedative side-effects and is said to sharpen concentration and memory. It is available as a tincture, tea or in tablet form.

Milk:

During the day or before bed, calm down with a glass of milk. Milk releases the amino acid trypto-phan, necessary for the formation of serotonin. And raising the level of serotonin in the brain has a soothing and tranquillising effect on the body, increasing your sense of wellbeing. Don't drink your milk with a protein-rich food such as meat or chicken, though, because the amino acids in these foods compete with the tryptophan to get to the brain first, so interrupting the effective production of serotonin.

Camomile:

The white petalled flowers of the camomile plant are often used in infusions to calm nervous tension and aid sleep.

A gentle but effective relaxant that does not interfere with concentration, camomile is also beneficial against stress-related stomach upsets and can safely be given to hyperactive children.

Ginseng:

Siberian ginseng has been proved to stave off tiredness and strengthen the body's ability to deal with stresses of all sorts. It is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stressful situations by stimulating the endocrine glands, including the adrenal gland, and keeping the body in harmony. Its beneficial effects appear to be cumulative and remain with you long after you stop taking the herb.

Valerian:

The herb valerian is often used in the treatment of digestive disorders, but its use as a nerve and brain tonic is also well documented. Traditionally believed to restore straight thinking and memory, valerian is the preferred choice of many herbalists for the management of stress and nervous exhaustion. If you have insomnia, it is best taken, like camomile, an hour before bed.

Bananas:

The old adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away can also be applied to bananas. Eating bananas can rid the body of anxiety and aid restful sleep. During times of tension, stress hormones drain magnesium from the body's cells, weakening the immune system and increasing feelings of tiredness. Researchers have discovered that eating magnesium-rich foods, such as bananas, provides a boost to flagging energy levels.

Zinc:

If you are restless and agitated, irritable and jumpy at the slightest noise, or even if you have a nervous twitch, then you may have a deficiency of zinc. An essential trace element for normal growth, zinc replacement is often prescribed by homeopaths to relieve mental and physical exhaustion. If you prefer not to take a supplement, eat plenty of shellfish, nuts and seeds.

Passion flower:

More potent than camomile, passion flower counters a hyperactive mind. If you can't sit still or your mind is full of things you have to do tomorrow, then this remedy is for you. Its sedative properties will promote relaxation and sleep. Taken during the day, its effect will not disrupt concentration or make you drowsy.

Vitamin B:

A full spectrum vitamin B complex can help if you are suffering from low energy levels. Found in greater quantities in foods such as brewer's yeast, wheat germ and liver, vitamin B complex is vital for processing the energy transfer from food to fuel. The greater the stress, the higher the demand.

Calming foods:

Complex carbohydrates such as cereals, wholemeal bread, pasta and potatoes will keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day, and level out the peaks and troughs of mood swings caused by too little starch or too much sugary food. Mushrooms are good, too. They are full of vitamin B12 and zinc, important in helping to combat anxiety, stress, depression and fatigue. ( dailymail.co.uk )

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Seven Things You Should Never Do In a Job Search

Seven Things You Should Never Do In a Job Search. Are you inadvertently sabotaging your job search? No matter how skilled or experienced you are, a few easy-to-make mistakes can get in your way.

A single typo on your résumé, for example, may cause hiring managers to question your professionalism and attention to detail, undermining your many professional accomplishments. Put simply, even one wrong move can cancel out all the right ones you've made.

Here are seven common job search mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Keeping your search to yourself

If no one knows you're looking for a new job, you may inadvertently be extending the length of your search. Talking with your family, friends and acquaintances is one of the best ways to identify new professional contacts and learn about job openings, even those that aren't advertised.

Professional networking Web sites, such as LinkedIn or BrightFuse, are also good avenues. In fact, 62 percent of executives interviewed by Robert Half International believe professional networking Web sites will prove useful in the search for job candidates in the next three years. Moreover, 35 percent of respondents cited social networking sites -- such as Facebook or MySpace -- as recruiting resources they plan to tap. Remember that the larger your network, the more job openings you will hear about.

2. Not doing your research

More than three-quarters of executives polled by RHI said job candidates they meet with display at least some knowledge of the company or industry. If you're not part of this majority, you're doing yourself a disservice.

Applicants who uncover beyond-the-basics knowledge of the job and company are better able to communicate specific ways they can contribute to the organization's success. Peruse corporate Web sites, trade publications and local business journals, and check in with members of your network to gain insights into the firm's challenges, opportunities, culture and values.

3. Flooding the market with an untargeted résumé

Online job boards have made it easy for applicants to apply for a position with the simple click of the mouse. But don't blindly blast your résumé to every company you come across. Hiring managers seek tailored résumés that tie a job seeker's unique skills and abilities to the requirements of the position. Take the extra time and effort to customize your application materials to each opportunity; any information you gathered during your research can prove particularly valuable here.

4. Neglecting the cover letter

Not including a cover letter with your résumé -- even when you've applied for a job online -- is passing up an opportunity to market your skills. In a survey by RHI, 86 percent of executives said cover letters are valuable when evaluating job candidates. A cover letter allows you to explain in greater detail the specific ways in which your expertise can benefit the firm.

5. Failing to proofread

Be mindful of spelling and grammar in your résumé and cover letter. Eighty-four percent of executives surveyed said it takes just one or two typographical errors to remove a candidate from consideration for a job opening.

Make sure all of your written communications with a potential employer, including e-mails and thank-you notes, are error free. To avoid this mistake, consider asking a detail-oriented friend to review your job search materials before submitting them.

6. Searching on your employer's time

If you are employed, it can be tempting to surf the Web for job openings at work. But doing so can quickly land you in hot water. Many companies monitor employees' Web use and, if your boss discovers you're using work hours to search for a new opportunity, you can jeopardize your job. Any activity related to your job search, including scheduling interviews and completing application materials, should be completed on your own time.

7. Failing to follow up with hiring managers

If you've applied for a job and haven't heard back, it's foolish to assume the position has been filled or you are not right for the role. Your résumé may simply have gotten lost in the flood of other applications.

Eighty-two percent of executives surveyed said candidates should contact hiring managers -- whether by e-mail, a phone call or a personalized letter -- within two weeks of submitting a résumé.

One final word of caution: An extended job search can put pressure on you to accept any offer that comes your way, but do your best to avoid taking a position that may cause more heartache than happiness. You may have to accept a less-than-perfect role in certain situations, but don't feel guilty holding out for a position with maximum appeal if you have the financial means to do so. ( msn.com )

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When You Don't Know What You Want to Do

Finding a Job When You Don't Know What You Want to Do. One of the most exciting aspects of a job hunt is the opportunity to pursue any career you want. An endless array of jobs awaits you; hundreds, thousands, perhaps hundreds of thousands. Surely you can throw out enough résumés to net the job of your dreams, right?

Alas, it's not that easy. You can't expect to compete with other job seekers if you don't know what you want. Unfortunately, a lot of job seekers don't know what they want to do when they find themselves looking for a job.

Maybe you're young and unsure of your future -- you might even have a degree. You might have been part of the work force for a decade or more and recently realized you don't like what you're doing, but you don't know what's next for you. Not knowing what to do first can be overwhelming, if not disheartening.

"Candidates looking for a job have to start somewhere," says Donna Flagg, president of the Krysalis Group, a business and management consulting firm. "I think the most important thing is not to try to decide on what long-term career is best, because it's too daunting. However, it's not hard to think about places, jobs or things that make you happy or that interest you. Start there and back into employers that may offer such an environment."

The problem, of course, comes with singling out a job that you'll enjoy.

Write it down

Your first step should get your brain working, according to Simma Lieberman, a performance improvement consultant and coach.

"Make a list of jobs, careers and topic areas that have interested you. Don't censor yourself or think of reasons why you shouldn't list them," she suggests. Then start researching.

Browse your social and professional networks for people in the industries that interest you and ask them any questions you have. Try to find experts in these fields who would be willing to have a brief informational interview with you. "After your interviews and research, list the pros and cons, skills and experience needed to be successful, and determine what careers or jobs match your interests, needs and wants."

Throughout this process, remember that you shouldn't close off any avenues without good reason. If you're a numbers person who can't even draw a smiley face to save your life, then you may want to cross artistic careers off the list and consider something in finance. But don't assume any field in finance is off limits because of a scant work history.

Of course, experience is key. Not just the experience you have, but also the experience you're willing to gain, says Annemarie Segaric, author of "Step into the Right Career: Change Your Life While Still Paying the Bills."

"Realize that it's often unreasonable to expect to know exactly what you want without the experience of working in different jobs in the first place. This will take the pressure off of you from having to know what you want to take action," she says. "Instead, taking action on different opportunities will help you hone in what you like and don't like."

If you have worked for two years or just have an internship under your belt, you should already have some idea of what you're good at and what you don't like. Even if it's as simple as realizing you don't like working with customers on a regular basis or you can't stand a cubicle job, knowing what you won't do is helpful to find out what you will do.

"Remember this is not the last job you'll ever have, so let your degree, your passions or even your alumni contacts in a certain industry guide you," she reminds. "You will be able to make this job a steppingstone on this long and often winding career journey."

The process

Once you've got the right mind-set to find a job, you still have to apply and interview, just like all other job candidates, many of whom have known what they wanted to do since they first uttered the words "director of human resources" while still wearing diapers. So when you walk in to an interview, you might not be 100 percent certain you want the job, but don't let the hiring manager know.

Tina Hamilton, president and CEO of HR company hireVision Group, offers some tips for job seekers still trying to find their direction.

· Look for jobs that align with your education.

While you don't want to limit yourself too much during the job hunt, don't apply for a job as an investment banker if you're about to complete a bachelor's in studio art.

· Use your cover letter to illustrate your qualifications.

As with any job hunt, help the hiring manager see why you're a good fit for the position. Don't make him work too hard.

· Don't indicate your lack of direction.

If you admit to the hiring manager you're just trying this job on for size, you're telling him or her that you might not stick around for too long and you raise doubts about your qualifications.

· Don't ask the hiring manager, "What position do you think I should be applying for?"

"These are not career counselors," Hamilton cautions. "If you are turned away for a job you may ask if there is another area in the organization that the interviewer feels might be a better fit for you." ( msn.com )

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Five Things Mom Taught You About Networking

Five Things Mom Taught You About Networking. Mothers are beautiful things. They care for us, they nurture us and they teach us the do's and don'ts of life.

I've learned a lot from my mother, especially when she taught me all about life, love and networking. I'm sure she didn't realize she was teaching me about networking at the time! Indeed she was, and I bet your mom taught you about networking as well. Perhaps my mom's words might sound familiar to you.

1. "Share your toys"

I can't remember how many times my mom told me to share. She thought it was important that we knew how to give to others. Growing up in a large family, I had to share almost everything. Sharing is good to learn when you're young, because it's a skill that helps to make us approachable.

Networking just wouldn't be networking if we didn't share. We can build stronger relationships with people when we're willing to share our resources. Some of our best resources include time, money, connections, information, knowledge and skills. People appreciate us when we're willing to give to the relationship. Giving people are approachable and reap the benefits of reciprocity.

2. "Walk, don't run!"

I used to hear this phrase no matter where we were -- in the house, in the grocery store, in the mall, in church and even at school. As a kid, I was always in a hurry to get to the next exciting thing around the corner. I couldn't wait; there always seemed to be someplace more interesting than where I was at the time. My attention was short and my mom was trying to teach me patience.

Patience is a virtue when it comes to networking. A fast-paced networker misses the true essence of the event and could very easily blow right past a tremendous opportunity. Fast-paced networkers tend to build shallow relationships that offer little or nothing of value to your business. On the other hand, patient networkers build deep, long-lasting relationships that significantly impact the growth of their business. Establishing a network that has depth far exceeds one that is shallow and frail.

3. "You have to work for it!"

Nothing in life worth having comes easily; you have to work for it. My parents taught me this lesson by example. They worked hard for what they accomplished and gave to their five children. They were determined to provide a wonderful life for their family and indeed they did. Today, in their retirement, they are reaping the benefits of their labor.

Networking is no different. That's why it's called net-WORK; it's not net-SIT or net-EAT. Building relationships takes not only time, but effort and energy. It also takes commitment and dedication to the process.

Some people put their faith in the "six degrees of separation" theory, which tells them that they're connected to anyone by no more than six degrees. In fact, this theory is flawed. A study actually showed that only 29 percent of the population is indeed separated by six degrees. So, for the majority of us, we've got to work hard to get into the 29 percent and work hard to stay there. The reward for accomplishing this task is great -- beyond what we can even imagine. Our mothers must have had foresight.

4. "Say thank you"

Not long after my siblings and I began to speak, my mom was making sure that we knew how to say "thank you." As most kids do, I wanted to know why saying "thank you" was so important, because, being a fast-paced kid, there seemed to be no time for "thank you."

In true mom form, my mother would reply, "Because, it's the right thing to do." Before I knew it, saying "thank you" became second nature and it felt right. It became a part of who I am and how I operate.

Little did I know then that my mom was teaching me one of the biggest of life's lessons. Saying "thank you" shows your gratitude, expresses your appreciation and solidifies the steps made towards further developing the relationship. It seems as though these two little words don't pack much of a punch these days. I can assure you that a written note of thanks for the efforts of a referral partner will enhance the possibilities that person might refer you again.

5. "Clean up after yourself"

My mother keeps a tidy household. I know that she wanted her kids to learn to appreciate a tidy household, so she always would be sure to tell us, "Clean up after yourself."

Secretly, I think it was her way of delegating so that she didn't have to spend the little spare time she had cleaning up after five kids. For me, it worked. I can remember always putting my toys away and tidying up my room.

What does cleaning up after yourself have to do with networking? As kids, there was always one last thing to do when we played with our toys: put them away. That was our quiet lesson in follow up. We followed up every playtime with a consistent behavior of cleaning up after ourselves. Today, as adults, one huge component of networking is following up and, more importantly, our ability to do it consistently. Meeting people and building relationships mean very little if we never bother to follow up with them. Making promises to help someone without efficient follow-up is just a bunch of empty promises. This homegrown lesson in follow up might have been one of the most important networking lessons of all.

These five lessons grounded me as a person and helped to develop me into a successful professional. As I write this article, I can hear my mom saying, "Someday you'll thank me!" Thanks, mom, for covertly teaching me lessons that would one day help me to be an effective networker. Perhaps it's time you thanked your mom. ( msn.com )

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Top 10 Jobs in Entertainment

Top 10 Jobs in Entertainment. Think about the last concert you attended. The band members were onstage for two hours, but they didn't get there by themselves. Someone booked the venue, promoted the show, drove the musicians to the auditorium, set up the stage, orchestrated the lighting and then loaded everything onto the bus after the show.

Movies, plays and TV and radio shows are just as involved.

Not every job in the entertainment industry will get you fame, but many will let you be creative. More importantly, they will put you in contact with professionals who can serve as valuable network contacts if you want to make a move into a different role at some point.

If you've always wanted to work in entertainment but knew being a starlet wasn't in the cards, you still have plenty of options. From overlooked jobs to others you might have never heard of, here are 10 jobs in the entertainment industry:

1. A and R administrator

What you do: A and R administrators monitor the cost of recording an album. They track the cost of studios, musicians and other fees in order to keep expenditures within the allotted budget.

Pro: You're privy to the daily operations of making a record months before anyone will ever hear the music.

Con: Making music can be boring and handling budgets can be stressful.

2. Caterer

What you do: Make all the food that performers and the crew eat. Anywhere performances are held -- movie sets, concert tours, circuses -- you'll find caterers supplying food for everyone to eat before and after the show.

Pro: If you're a foodie, you get to marry your refined palate with access to music and movies.

Con: People are picky, so not only are you making food for a small army, you're also accommodating their strange tastes.

3. Cinematographer

What you do: Work with a film director to determine the visual look for a movie or a specific scene. You choose the film, lenses and any other tools that will achieve the look he or she wants, in addition to working with the rest of the filming crew to plan how to frame and shoot each scene.

Pro: Playing with camera equipment is fun and lets you access your creative side.

Con: A lot of variables -- like budget, weather, cast changes -- can affect how smoothly filming runs, making your job harder.

4. Critic

What you do: Review music, movies and plays. Critics get paid to listen to music, watch movies and attend theater and then critique it for newspapers, magazines, blogs, radio stations and TV shows.

Pro: You'd be spending money to do these things anyway, but instead someone's paying you.

Con: You have to endure some really bad art because someone's paying you to sit through it.

5. Makeup artist

What you do: Make actors, actresses and models looks gorgeous. Or freaky. Often the goal of a makeup artist is to erase any blemishes from an actor or model's face for a flawless look. Sometimes, depending on the role, fashion shoot or runway show, looking ugly or just plain weird is the goal.

Pro: You're an artist and your canvas is a human being.

Con: Clients aren't always nice and makeup trailers can be full of backstage drama.

6. Professional speaker

What you do: Talk to people about what you know best. Perhaps you don't think of speakers as part of entertainment, but they employ all the same elements of any other performer. Professional speakers take center stage and have to entertain you, whether it means boosting your self-esteem, educating you or just entertaining you.

Pro: People pay just to hear what you have to say. That's a nice ego boost.

Con: All eyes are on you, so every time you talk to a group, you not only have to win over the audience but you have to hold its attention.

7. Publicist

What you do: Get media coverage for your client, who could be an actor, musician or high-profile business owner. You approach reporters who might want to cover an event or interview your client.

Pro: You get to rub elbows with famous people and get chummy with major publications.

Con: Pitching a story isn't always easy and you can end up with a nightmare client whose name you want to keep out of the paper.

8. Stunt person

What you do: Fall down a lot. Stunt workers do the obvious death-defying leaps from buildings and car chases through the chaotic streets of a movie set, but they also work in operas, plays and TV shows.

Pro: You get to punch people, crash cars and watch buildings explode.

Con: You get punched, banged up in car crashes and burned by fiery debris.

9. Theater consultant

What you do: Use your knowledge of a theater's daily operations to assist architects and design teams who are drafting plans for auditoriums. You give your input on a variety of topics, from stage and seating layout to lighting arrangements.

Pros: As a theater lover, you help shape a venue that will go on to stage performances.

Cons: You're one voice in a big team, so your arguments for certain features might face opposition from people who are concerned more with design than functionality.

10. Writer

What you do: Write scripts for TV, film, radio and every other medium. Of course you know about the screenwriters when they accept their Oscars, but don't forget that someone's writing your favorite TV show and that funny commercial you saw during the break. The scripts reporters read on TV and on the radio also come from writers.

Pro: Your words reach people -- whether it's a few hundred or a several million.

Con: A lot of people stand between your pen and the final product, so your creative vision won't necessarily stay intact. ( msn.com )

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